Smith said education and hard work were emphasized by her grandparents who have raised her.

“When I was little my grandpa never missed work, so we kind of had a little thing where if he didn’t miss work, I wouldn’t miss school,” she said.

Smith’s love of school has resulted in a well-rounded four-year resume, including everything from the student council, Future Farmers of America, garden club and National Beta Club to girls softball and basketball.

“She’s pretty fabulous,” said Lena Steele, a secondary math teacher at Laurel Hill who has worked extensively with Smith. “She’s dependable. She’s very bright.”

Steele said Smith has worked as her aide for several years and has proven she has “a good work ethic.”

Smith said education and hard work were emphasized by her grandparents who have raised her.

“When I was little my grandpa never missed work, so we kind of had a little thing where if he didn’t miss work, I wouldn’t miss school,” she said.

Smith’s love of school has resulted in a well-rounded four-year resume, including everything from the student council, Future Farmers of America, garden club and National Beta Club to girls softball and basketball.

“She’s pretty fabulous,” said Lena Steele, a secondary math teacher at Laurel Hill who has worked extensively with Smith. “She’s dependable. She’s very bright.”

Steele said Smith has worked as her aide for several years and has proven she has “a good work ethic.”